Doctors suspect environmental, genetic and nutritional factors lead to the condition.

Since inflammatory bowel disease often strikes people who are young and healthy, it can be difficult to get a diagnosis. But doctors say often patients are in denial, which keeps them from seeking treatment.

"There's complications to untreated inflammation, the most pertinent one would be the development of cancer as a result of chronic inflammation," Treyzon explained.

With millions watching "Liv and Maddie," the NIH National Library of Medicine thought King could reach the 800,000 children living with irritable bowel disease.

"Stay with your doctor regularly, get checkups and if something doesn't seem right follow through on it, don't just sort of brush it off," King said.

With medication, surgery and good nutrition, King is in remission and wants people to know Crohn's disease can be conquered.

"You can live a full and productive life, check in with your doctor, take your medication, but have fun and don't let this disease define you," King said.